Marathon weather a winner

For the elite runners Sunday in the Pittsburgh Marathon, the weather will be close to perfect.

At the 7 a.m. start of the race, AccuWeather predicts a temperature of 53 degrees and mostly sunny skies with no chance of rain, 76 percent humidity and southerly winds at 4 mph.

As of Friday afternoon, the marathon emergency alert system was set at green, meaning the course is in good condition. But that may change as the race progresses.

Although many of the elite runners will finish when temperatures are in the 60s, the rest of the field will deal with warmer weather, as AccuWeather expects a high of 75 degrees.

Ron Roth, the Pittsburgh Marathon’s medical director, said Friday at the kickoff news conference that 18 aid stations along the course will fly flags indicating the weather conditions and suggested runners dress in layers and shed clothing as they go.

“Runners should find the temperatures in the morning very good with the temperature starting at 50 degrees,” Dr. Roth said. “But during the day, the temperature will slowly rise. And if you’re a slower runner, you should be aware that the temperatures may hit the 70s as you’re crossing the finish line.”

With the sunny forecast, the marathon website also advised runners to apply sunscreen or wear a hat.